Brussels

Canals, Cobblestones & Courtyards: A Fairytale Bruges Escape

Day Trips & Local Escapes • 8 hours 5.0

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Canals, Cobblestones & Courtyards: A Fairytale Bruges Escape

Discover Bruges’ enchanting side, peaceful canals, hidden alleys, and historic squares, exploring at your own pace with a local host.

Get one to access museums for free and enjoy discounts for selected attractions!

What makes this experience special

Brussels unfolds differently through your questions. While others follow fixed routes, you'll discover the city that matches your rhythm—from chocolate workshops to courtyard cafés only regulars know.

Key highlights

See Bruges at a relaxed pace, away from the crowds.
Explore historic streets, canals, and hidden corners.
Discover peaceful courtyards and quiet waterways.
Hear fascinating stories and local legends.
Enjoy an unhurried, flexible experience.
Walk to Bruges’ windmills for scenic views.

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

At a glance What’s included Things to know

8 hours

Fully tailored to your preferences

English Other languages may be requested

Walking experience may use public transport for long distances

What’s included

Tailored itinerary based on your preferences

A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems

Flexible start times to fit your day

Return train ticket from Brussels to Bruges

What’s not included

Food, drinks and shopping expenses

Transport fares or attraction entry fees (apart from the return tickets to Bruges)

Meeting point

Central Station, Cantersteen 14, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
Cash is not accepted on De Lijn buses in Bruges. Use a contactless payment method (bank card, Apple Pay, Google Pay) or buy a De Lijn ticket via the app, website, or ticket machines.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

Central Station, Cantersteen 14, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Meet Up at Brussels Central Station

Start your journey in Brussels and board a direct train to Bruges

Canals, Cobblestones & Courtyards: A Fairytale Bruges Escape

Meet your host at the station and chat about the day ahead as you ride the train (~1 hour). It’s a chance to get to know each other and hear a few stories about what makes Bruges so unique—flexibility starts from the moment you meet.

Arriving in Bruges, Step Into the Past

Medieval charm, quiet corners, and spontaneous discovery

You’ll arrive right in the heart of Bruges’ old town. Whether you’re drawn to still canals, serene courtyards, or cobbled lanes, your host will shape the walk to suit your mood. It’s about soaking in the rhythm of the city, not ticking off sights.

From Belfry to Hidden Squares

See Bruges’ famous tower then escape the crowds

Take a moment to admire the Belfry from Markt Square, then slip into Jan van Eyckplein—a peaceful spot rich with merchant history. Your host knows where the energy fades and the stories deepen.

Secret Alleys & Local Legends

Wander hidden walkways and hear Bruges’ quirkier tales

Find Bruges’ tiniest alley (if you can!) and hear the tale behind Blind Donkey Alley. These are the kinds of discoveries most visitors miss and exactly what makes the day feel yours.

Begijnhof: A Quiet Pause

Explore a UNESCO-listed courtyard steeped in peace

Step into whitewashed calm at the Begijnhof, once home to independent women. You might stop at the chapel or just sit under the trees, there’s no rush here.

Canal Walks & A Secret Viewpoint

Skip the boats and walk Bruges’ most peaceful canal paths

Stroll beside mirror-still water along Groenerei or Sint-Annarei. Your host may guide you to a hidden bench—perfect for a quiet pause or a shared story.

Bruges’ Windmills & City Ramparts

Walk a peaceful path to working windmills and open green space

If you're up for it, a short walk takes you to the windmills of Kruisvest Park—less visited, more serene. It's a great spot to wrap up your walk before the train back.

Returning to Brussels

Unwind as your day winds down

Board your train back feeling unhurried and content. Whether you reflect on your favorite spots, get recommendations for what’s next, or just enjoy the view, your host will make sure it ends just as smoothly as it began.

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

Big Thumbs, Bigger Memories: City Unscripted in Motion

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recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor

We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.

Lynn Jun 2025

This was an amazing place with such a great tour guide. She was so accommodating and flexible for our needs. She let us have some free time while also educating us and showing us around the town. We highly recommend the tour.

Lissa Jun 2025

A wonderful experience with a friendly, kind and knowledgeable guide.

Kevin May 2025

Very knowledgeable, personable. Excellent tour guide. Would highly recommend

Nicole May 2025

We like to meet locals and get a flavor of life in the country.

David May 2025

Randi Apr 2025

We appreciated Andrea altering our trip for us when our plane arrived a day and several hours late. He showed us all the most liked places!

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour?

No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll match you with the best host who will tailor the experience to you. You'll have the opportunity to chat with them before the experience and agree on a plan.

Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?

Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Can I request specific places to visit?

Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.

Can I adjust the plan on the day?

Of course! Your experience is flexible, so you can explore at your own pace and make changes along the way.

What kind of stories and insights will my host share?

Each host has their own personal relationship with the city. You'll experience the city through their eyes—hearing stories about places they love, discovering hidden gems, and learning what makes their city special in a way that goes beyond a typical tour.

Will we enter attractions, or just explore from the outside?

That’s up to you! Some experiences include visits inside attractions, while others focus on the city's culture and atmosphere, which can be hard to truly experience without someone who knows the city inside out.

Are food and drinks included, or do I need to pay separately?

Unless stated otherwise, food and drinks are not included. Your host will take you to great spots where you can order what you like and pay as you go.

Is this experience physically demanding?

We can tailor the experience to be as active or relaxed as you like—just let us know what suits you best!

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.